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Made over for the office
The made up Esther. Matovu says this is a look you can go with to work.
What you need to know:
Made over. Makeup application is quiet effortless. That is, if you know what to do. Meddie Matovu, a makeup artiste, explains that all you need is to know your skin type and therefore, suitable cosmetics in terms of brand, colours and shades.
With the aid of Esther Oluka, a journalist who barely wears lip bum, Matovu tips on makeup application, specifically for a day look:
The eyebrows:
• Brows
The artist explains that messy eyebrows can mess up the whole face, so trim them to define your look before applying pencil to thicken the appearance.
• Shadow
The darker shadow shades look best on darker skin, and the lighter shades look best on the lighter persons. The smoky look, on the other hand is supposed to be worn on a night look, and it would look out of place when worn to work. Eye liner takes 45 minutes to dry up, depending on the brand that you are using.
Foundation
Start with contouring, which involves applying layers of powder to even out the complexion. Ensure that you go past the hairline to balance out the look.
The number of foundation layers you apply depend on what results you want. If you want to cover up all dark spots and get a flawless look, you may need to apply over six layers. This would not be applicable for work, though. Instead, use a light powder in place of foundation, especially for a formal work place.
Lips
The shade should depend on how thick or thin your lips are. The thinner the lips, the darker the lipstick shades to help pop out the lips a little.
Blush
Among the most misused items, blush is supposed to help elongate your face. It should be applied under the cheekbone, and not around the cheeks, or you will look punched. Suck in your cheeks and then apply the blush right under the cheekbone.
extras
• If you want lash extensions…
This will depend on whether you can get away with them at your place of work. Liquid eye liner above the lashes makes them blend in. Mascara fits them into your natural ones. Oil-based mascara will not make a mess even when you cry or get caught in the rain.
Final touches
Apply a little buffing with a pat of powder to remove any finger prints, then use a concealer to correct any patches in your makeup.
The artist
Meddie Matovu, 24, has worked as a makeup artist for four years now. A graduate of Information Technology from Makerere University, Matovu says he was always interested in beauty, an interest that came in handy when he needed to make money outside the 24-hour work routine. With no formal training in the trade, he updates his makeup skills online, while he works towards taking a course in beauty and cosmetics. His clientele includes Judith Heard, Irene Namubiru, and Desire Luzinda.
Expert makeup tips
Matovu gives some general insights on makeup, starting with a shopping guide;
Know your skin complexion, paying special attention to what makeup suits your skin. Find out whether you have a dry or oily skin too as there is different makeup requirements for either.
Study what makeup brands work best for you.
Do not opt for cheap products. Buy genuine ones or do not buy at all.
Know that…
Makeup only enhances your looks so not even overdoing it will alter your look completely. If you have nice eyes, enhance them with mascara.
To remove makeup...
Use wet wipes or wash your face with warm water. You can wash it with some medicated soap to totally take the makeup off. Do not use a towel as this is rather rough and could damage your skin.
Makeup will not...
Make you appear lighter. A light shade of foundation or powder is therefore a mistake.
